How to Raise Pool pH?

Swimming pools with a low pH are not safe. Acidic water tends to irritate the eyes and skin. Also, pools with a high pH can corrode pool equipment. Therefore, it is essential to keep monitoring your pool water to avoid having a high pool pH. Fortunately, it is not hard to raise pool pH as most people think. Note that your pool’s pH should range between 7.3 to 7.6.

Step-by-step procedure you can use to raise pool pH #

As mentioned earlier, raising your pool’s pH is a relatively straightforward process. However, it consumes a lot of time. Below is a detailed process you can use to raise pool pH.

Step one: Check the pool chemistry #

The first thing to do would be to determine the exact pH of the pool. Doing this helps you know the right quantity of chemicals to use. Next, you can check the pH level using a simple test strip. Then, proceed to the next step.

Step two: Identify the volume of your pool in gallons #

Surprisingly, very few pool owners know the volume of their pools. Identifying the capacity of your pool in gallons will enable you to determine the right amount of chemicals to use. Calculating the capacity of your pool is not as complex as most people think. All you need to do is multiply the width, length, and height of the pool. From there, multiply the results by 7.5 to get the total pool volume in gallons.

Step three: Measure your chemicals #

In most instances, sodium carbonate is the best chemical for lowering your pool’s pH. Identify the exact quantity of sodium bicarbonate to use by determining the volume of your pool and the current pH. It would be best to consult a pool professional about the exact amount of chemicals to use for your pool.

Step four: Add your chemicals #

Take a bucket measuring 5 gallons. Then, pour the measured amount of sodium bicarbonate into the water. Mix the water and the chemical; then add the solution to the pool. As you do this, ensure the pool pump is switched on. This way, the soda ash solution will reach every area of the pool.

Step five: Check the pH of the pool water #

After you add the soda ash solution to the pool:

1. Leave it for approximately one hour.
2. Check the pool’s pH.
3. Suppose you’ve managed to achieve a pH of 7.3 to 7.6, your pool is in good shape.

However, if the pH is not fully restored to neutral, you might have to add more alkaline solution.

Conclusion #

The pH of a pool can rise due to certain factors. In such scenarios, ensure you use the right chemicals to restore the pH to neutral. Acidic pool water is unsafe for swimmers since it can cause severe eye and skin irritation. So, if your pool has a high pH, use the right amount of sodium bicarbonate to restore it to its neutral state.